Saud Anwar

East Windsor Delegation Excited for Economic, Environmental Benefits as Town Chosen as Site for Largest Solar Development in Northeast

The East Windsor delegation, including State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor), State Representative Jamie Foster (D-East Windsor) and East Windsor First Selectman Jason E. Bowsza, celebrated news from last week that the Connecticut Siting Council approved the largest solar development in the northeastern United States, with that development to be built in East Windsor. The project will generate the equivalent of 23,000 homes, more than twice the population of East Windsor itself, over a 485-acre site. The project is expected to be complete in late 2022 or early 2023.

“This project represents a major opportunity for East Windsor, not only in the economic benefits of hosting such a solar development but the environmental benefits that will come with such an increase in renewable energy accessibility in our state,” said Sen. Anwar. “This will bolster local use of land and provide benefits locally and across Connecticut.”

“This project will have a far-reaching impact on the town of East Windsor. As a supporter of clean energy, I am thrilled that the largest solar farm in the Northeast will be in my community, ” said Rep. Foster. ” In addition to the environmental benefits, the project will generate local job opportunities as well. Although farmland is included in this project, it is important to remember that the land can be used for farming after the life of the solar panels end.”

“I am exceptionally proud to see this project win approval,” First Selectman Bowsza said. “This project has been under development since just after I took office, and it presents an opportunity for East Windsor to be a part of the state’s renewable energy goals while seeing a significant increase in local tax revenue for the town.”

Gravel Pit Solar, a 120-megawatt solar project, will be built on 485 acres of land in East Windsor including fields, woods and quarries, with construction expected as soon as this year. Connecticut has purchased 20 megawatts of power, while Rhode Island has purchased 50, with the remainder to be sold to additional buyers.

It is expected that the East Windsor project will be a large source of property tax revenue for the town, with an agreement requiring owners to pay $378,000 annually for 20 years, plus a $1.5 million impact payment at the beginning of construction. It is also expected for the project to spur significant job growth.